Aerosol generator and flavor aspirator

ABSTRACT

An aerosol generator ( 3 ) according to the present invention is provided with: an aerosol source storage part ( 31 ) that includes a liquid first aerosol source and a first absorber for absorbing the first aerosol source, the first absorber including a tobacco material; and, an aerosol generation part ( 32 ) that includes a liquid second aerosol source and a second absorber for absorbing the second aerosol source, the second absorber including a tobacco material and contacting the first absorber. The speed at which the second absorber sucks up the first aerosol source is higher than the speed at which the first absorber sucks up the first aerosol source.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a Continuation Application of PCT Application No. PCT/JP2021/018848 filed May 18, 2021, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD

The present invention relates to an aerosol generator and a flavor inhaler.

BACKGROUND

A heat-not-burn-type flavor inhaler is known in which a tobacco flavor is provided to a user by heating a tobacco flavor source including a tobacco material and an aerosol source without burning it. For example, Patent Literature 1 discloses a heat-not-burn-type flavor inhaler, and that a tobacco flavor source consists of a plurality of sections, and a heater selectively and individually heats a specific section. Thereby, the flavor inhaler of Patent Literature 1 can heat a new section that has not yet been heated after a plurality of inhalations.

CITATION LIST Patent Literature

-   Patent Literature 1: International Publication No. 2013/034454

SUMMARY Technical Problem

An object of the present invention is to provide an aerosol generator capable of continuously releasing a sufficient amount of aerosol, and a flavor inhaler including the aerosol generator.

Solution to Problem

According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided an aerosol generator comprising:

-   -   an aerosol source storage unit including a liquid first aerosol         source and a first absorber having the first aerosol source         absorbed, the first absorber including a tobacco material; and     -   an aerosol generation unit including a liquid second aerosol         source and a second absorber having the second aerosol source         absorbed, the second absorber including a tobacco material and         being in contact with the first absorber,     -   a rate at which the second absorber absorbs the first aerosol         source being higher than a rate at which the first absorber         absorbs the first aerosol source.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided the aerosol generator according to the above-mentioned aspect, wherein at least one of the first absorber and the second absorber includes one or more of sheet tobacco, tobacco granules, and a porous body of a mixture containing a polysaccharide and tobacco powder.

According to further another aspect of the present invention, there is provided the aerosol generator according to any one of the above-mentioned aspects, wherein the first absorber and the second absorber are integrally formed.

According to further another aspect of the present invention, there is provided the aerosol generator according to any one of the above-mentioned aspects, wherein an interface between the first absorber and the second absorber includes a concave portion or a convex portion.

According to further another aspect of the present invention, there is provided the aerosol generator according to any one of the above-mentioned aspects, further comprising a heater heating the aerosol generation unit.

According to further another aspect of the present invention, there is provided the aerosol generator according to any one of the above-mentioned aspects, wherein the first absorber has a shape extending in one direction, and the first absorber and the second absorber are arranged in a length direction of the first absorber.

According to further another aspect of the present invention, there is provided the aerosol generator according to the above-mentioned aspect, wherein an absorber protrudes at a central portion thereof toward the second absorber.

According to further another aspect of the present invention, there is provided the aerosol generator according to any one of the above-mentioned aspects, further comprising a cylindrical body accommodating the aerosol source storage unit and the aerosol generation unit, wherein the aerosol source storage unit and the aerosol generation unit are arranged in a length direction of the cylindrical body.

According to further another aspect of the present invention, there is provided the aerosol generator according to the above-mentioned aspect, wherein the cylindrical body has a smaller diameter of an opening closer to the aerosol generation unit than an inner diameter at a position of the aerosol source storage unit.

According to further another aspect of the present invention, there is provided the aerosol generator according to any one of the above-mentioned aspects, further comprising a heater including a heating surface facing the first absorber with the second absorber interposed therebetween.

According to further another aspect of the present invention, there is provided the aerosol generator according to the above-mentioned aspect, wherein the heater includes one or more grooves provided in the heating surface, one or more through holes communicating with the one or more grooves, or both.

According to further another aspect of the present invention, there is provided the aerosol generator according to any one of the above-mentioned aspects, wherein the second absorber is tapered towards the heating surface, and the heating surface has a smaller dimension in a direction perpendicular to the length direction of the first absorber than that of the first absorber.

According to further another aspect of the present invention, there is provided the aerosol generator according to any one of the above-mentioned aspects, further comprising a heater including a linear heating portion facing the first absorber with the second absorber interposed therebetween.

According to further another aspect of the present invention, there is provided the aerosol generator according to the above-mentioned aspect, wherein the second absorber has a surface on a side of the heating portion, the surface on the side of the heating portion being seen flat in a cross section parallel to the length direction of the first absorber and the length direction of the heating portion, and being seen protruding at a central portion thereof in a cross section parallel to the length direction of the first absorber and perpendicular to the length direction of the heating portion.

According to further another aspect of the present invention, there is provided the aerosol generator according to any one of the above-mentioned aspects, further comprising a cylindrical body accommodating the aerosol source storage unit, wherein the cylindrical body has a smaller diameter of an opening closer to the aerosol generation unit than an inner diameter at a position away from the opening, and the aerosol generation unit protrudes outside the cylindrical body at a position of the opening.

According to further another aspect of the present invention, there is provided the aerosol generator according to the above-mentioned aspect, further comprising a coiled heater wound around the aerosol generation unit.

According to further another aspect of the present invention, there is provided the aerosol generator according to any one of the above-mentioned aspects, wherein the first absorber has a pillar shape, and the second absorber surrounds the first absorber.

According to further another aspect of the present invention, there is provided the aerosol generator according to the above-mentioned aspect, further comprising a linear heater surrounding the first absorber with the second absorber interposed therebetween.

Alternatively, according to further another aspect of the present invention, there is provided the aerosol generator according to the above-mentioned aspect, further comprising a cylindrical heater surrounding the first absorber with the second absorber interposed therebetween.

According to further another aspect of the present invention, there is provided the aerosol generator according to the above-mentioned aspect, wherein an inner surface of the heater includes one or more grooves each extending from one opening of the heater to another opening of the heater.

According to further another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a flavor inhaler comprising:

-   -   the aerosol generator according to any one of the         above-mentioned aspects;     -   a power supply supplying electric power to the heater; and     -   a case including a mouthpiece at one end, and accommodating the         aerosol generator and the power supply.

According to further another aspect of the present invention, there is provided the flavor inhaler according to the above-mentioned aspect, wherein the aerosol generator is positioned between the power supply and the mouthpiece.

According to further another aspect of the present invention, there is provided the flavor inhaler according to the above-mentioned aspect, wherein the case includes an air inlet at a position between the power supply and the aerosol generator, and the aerosol generator and the case form a flow path therebetween from the air inlet to the mouthpiece.

Advantageous Effects of Invention

According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an aerosol generator capable of continuously releasing a sufficient amount of aerosol, and a flavor inhaler including the aerosol generator.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a flavor inhaler according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an aerosol generator included in the flavor inhaler of FIG. 1 .

FIG. 3 is a top view of a heater included in the aerosol generator shown in FIG. 2 .

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an aerosol generator according to a first modification.

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a flavor inhaler according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an aerosol generator included in the flavor inhaler of FIG. 5 .

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a flavor inhaler according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an aerosol generator included in the flavor inhaler of FIG. 7 .

FIG. 9 is another cross-sectional view of the aerosol generator shown in FIG. 8 .

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a flavor inhaler according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an aerosol generator included in the flavor inhaler of FIG. 10 .

FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an aerosol generator according to a second modification.

FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an aerosol generator according to a third modification.

FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a flavor inhaler according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an aerosol generator included in the flavor inhaler of FIG. 14 .

FIG. 16 is a top view of the aerosol generator shown in FIG. 15 .

FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a flavor inhaler according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an aerosol generator included in the flavor inhaler of FIG. 17 .

FIG. 19 is a top view of the aerosol generator shown in FIG. 18 .

FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an aerosol generator according to a fourth modification.

FIG. 21 is a top view of the aerosol generator shown in FIG. 20 .

FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a flavor inhaler according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 23 is another cross-sectional view of the flavor inhaler shown in FIG. 22 .

FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a flavor inhaler according to another modification.

FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a flavor inhaler according to still another modification.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Elements having the same or similar functions are denoted by the same reference numerals and description will be omitted for redundant parts.

<1> First Embodiment <1-1> Structure

FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a flavor inhaler according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an aerosol generator included in the flavor inhaler of FIG. 1 . FIG. 3 is a top view of a heater included in the aerosol generator shown in FIG. 2 .

A flavor inhaler 1 shown in FIG. 1 is a device for inhaling a flavor without involving burning. The flavor inhaler 1 has a shape extending in one direction.

In FIGS. 1 to 3 , a Z direction is a length direction of the flavor inhaler 1, an X direction is a direction perpendicular to the Z direction, and a Y direction is a direction perpendicular to the X direction and the Z direction. Unless otherwise specified, the X direction, the Y direction, and the Z direction are the same as described above in other drawings as well.

The flavor inhaler 1 includes a case 2, an aerosol generator 3, a power supplier 4, an operation unit (not shown), and a notification unit (not shown).

<Case>

The case 2 includes a first case unit 21 and a second case unit 22.

The first case unit 21 has a bottomed cylindrical shape. The first case unit 21 is provided with one or more air inlets H1. Here, a plurality of air inlets H1 are provided on a sidewall of the first case unit 21 in the vicinity of the opening thereof.

The second case unit 22 has a bottomed cylindrical shape. The second case unit 22 has substantially the same diameter on the opening side as that of the first case unit 21. The second case unit 22 is tapered from the opening side toward the bottom side. Here, a portion in the vicinity of the bottom of the second case unit 22 has a smaller diameter than that of the other portion of the second case unit 22.

The portion in the vicinity of the bottom of the second case unit 22 forms a mouthpiece 22M. The mouthpiece 22M is provided with one or more aerosol outlets H2. Here, one aerosol outlet H2 is provided at the bottom of the second case unit 22. The mouthpiece 22M may be provided integrally with the other portion of the second case unit 22, or may be attachable to and detachable from the other portion of the second case unit 22.

The second case unit 22 is attachable to and detachable from a power supply unit including the first case unit 21. The power supply unit will be described later.

The openings of the first case unit 21 and the second case unit 22 are attached to each other. Thereby, the first case unit 21 and the second case unit 22 form, in the case 2, an internal space that communicates with an external space via the air inlets H1 and the aerosol outlet H2.

<Operation Unit>

The operation unit is disposed in the first case unit 21. The operation unit may be disposed in the second case unit 22.

The operation unit issues, for example, a command related to activation or stop to a control unit described later in response to a user's operation. The operation unit includes, for example, a button-type switch or a touch panel.

< Notification Unit>

The notification unit is disposed in the first case unit 21. The notification unit may be disposed in the second case unit 22.

The notification unit notifies the user of a state of the flavor inhaler 1. For example, if a voltage of a secondary battery described later is lowered and charging is required, if the secondary battery is fully charged, or if the number of puff actions or a cumulative time of electric power supply to a discharge terminal described later reaches a prescribed value, the user is notified of it.

The notification unit includes, for example, a light emitting element such as a light-emitting diode. The notification unit may include a vibration element or a sound output element. Alternatively, the notification unit may include a display device such as a liquid crystal display device or an organic electroluminescence display device. Alternatively, the notification unit may include two or more of a light emitting element, a vibration element, a sound output element, and a display device.

<Power Supplier>

The power supplier 4 is disposed in the first case unit 21. The power supplier 4, the operation unit, and the first case unit 21 constitute the power supply unit.

The power supplier 4 includes a power supply, a discharge terminal, a charger, various sensors, and a control unit.

The power supply includes a secondary battery such as a lithium-ion secondary battery. The power supply further includes a power supply circuit that supplies electric power from the secondary battery to the discharge terminal and the like. The discharge terminal is disposed between the secondary battery and the opening of the first case unit 21. The charger charges the secondary battery with electric power supplied from an external power supply.

The sensors are, for example, an inhalation sensor that detects a user's puff (inhalation) action, a voltage sensor that measures a voltage of the secondary battery, and a temperature sensor that detects a temperature. The inhalation sensor is, for example, a condenser microphone or a pressure sensor.

The control unit includes a processing unit and a storage unit. The processing unit includes an integrated circuit (IC). The storage unit includes a memory, for example, a volatile memory, a nonvolatile memory, or both. The operation unit, the notification unit, the power supply circuit, and various sensors are connected to the control unit.

The control unit controls, if receiving an activation command from the operation unit, the operation of the notification unit so that the notification unit notifies the user of the activation state.

The control unit controls, if receiving an activation command from the operation unit, the operation of the power supply circuit according to an output from the inhalation sensor or the temperature sensor. For example, the control unit controls the operation of the power supply circuit so that the power supply starts supplying electric power to the discharge terminal if the inhalation sensor detects the start of the user's puff action, and so that the power supply stops supplying electric power to the discharge terminal if the inhalation sensor detects interruption or termination of the user's puff action. For example, the control unit controls the magnitude of the electric power supplied to the discharge terminal by the power supply during the puff action according to the temperature detected by the temperature sensor.

Furthermore, the control unit counts the number of puff actions of the user by using the output of the inhalation sensor, or obtains a cumulative time in which the power supply circuit supplies electric power to the discharge terminal. If the number of puff actions or the cumulative time of electric power supply reaches a prescribed value, the control unit controls the operation of the notification unit so that the notification unit notifies the user of it.

The control unit determines, if the voltage detected by the voltage sensor is below the first voltage in the activation state, that charging of the secondary battery is necessary. If it is determined that charging of the secondary battery is necessary, the control unit controls the operation of the notification unit so that the notification unit notifies the user of it.

During charging, the control unit controls the operation of the notification unit so that the notification unit notifies the user that charging is being performed. The control unit determines, for example, if the voltage detected by the voltage sensor exceeds the second voltage, that the secondary battery is fully charged. If it is determined that the secondary battery is fully charged, the control unit controls the operation of the notification unit so that the notification unit notifies the user of it.

<Aerosol Generator>

The aerosol generator 3 is disposed in the second case unit 22. The aerosol generator 3 is, for example, attachable to and detachable from the second case unit 22. In this case, the aerosol generator 3 is a replaceable cartridge, and a support member for detachably supporting the aerosol generator 3 is disposed in the case 2. The combination of the aerosol generator 3 and the second case unit 22 may also constitute a replaceable cartridge.

The aerosol generator 3 is located between the power supply and the mouthpiece 22M. The aerosol generator 3 and the case 2 form therebetween a flow path extending from the air inlet H1 to the mouthpiece 22M. In FIG. 1 , a broken line F represents a flow of air or an aerosol in the flow path.

The aerosol generator 3 includes, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 , an aerosol source storage unit 31, an aerosol generation unit 32, a cylindrical body 33, and a heater 34. The aerosol generation unit 32 serves to generate an aerosol by being heated by the heater 34 to atomize a liquid aerosol source contained in the aerosol generation unit 32. The aerosol source storage unit 31, on the other hand, serves to supply the liquid aerosol source contained in the aerosol source storage unit 31 to the aerosol generation unit 32. It is preferable that the aerosol source storage unit 31 be not heated by the heater 34. That is, it is preferable that the liquid aerosol source contained in the aerosol source storage unit 31 be not atomized through heating.

The aerosol source may be supplied from the aerosol source storage unit 31 to the aerosol generation unit 32 based on, for example, the same principle as ink being supplied in a cotton reservoir-type pen (i.e., ink being supplied from an ink-soaked cotton reservoir to a pen tip that is in contact with the cotton reservoir), i.e., based on capillary action.

(Aerosol Source Storage unit)

The aerosol source storage unit 31 includes a liquid first aerosol source, and a first absorber that has absorbed the first aerosol source. Here, the term “liquid” means a liquid in a usage temperature range of the flavor inhaler 1. The usage temperature range of the flavor inhaler 1 is, for example, −5 to 40° C.

The first aerosol source is absorbed and held into the first absorber. For the first aerosol source, an aerosol source generally used in a heat-not-burn-type flavor inhaler can be used. For the first aerosol source, for example, polyhydric alcohol can be used. Examples of the polyhydric alcohol include glycerin, propylene glycol, 1,3-propanediol, 1,3-butanediol, or any combination thereof.

The first absorber is a molded body according to one example. The first absorber has a shape extending in one direction. Here, the first absorber has a pillar shape in which the height direction is equal to the Z direction. Specifically, the first absorber has a substantially columnar shape in which the height direction is equal to the Z direction and one bottom surface protrudes in a conical shape.

The first absorber includes a tobacco material. The tobacco material is preferably a molded product (hereinafter also referred to as a tobacco molded body) obtained by molding a raw material containing leaf tobacco into a specific shape. “Leaf tobacco” refers to dried tobacco leaves ready to be incorporated into a flavor inhaler such as a heating-type flavor inhaler, obtainable through various processes of drying harvested tobacco leaves in farm houses, then aging for one to several years in leaf processing facilities, then blending and cutting in manufacturing facilities, and the like.

As described above, the first absorber preferably includes a tobacco molded body. The first absorber more preferably includes at least one of sheet tobacco, tobacco granules, and a porous body of a mixture containing a polysaccharide and tobacco powder.

“Sheet tobacco” refers to a molded product obtained by molding a raw material containing leaf tobacco into a sheet shape. The sheet tobacco can be molded by a known method such as a papermaking method, a casting method, or a rolling method. If the tobacco molded body is formed by a papermaking method, it is referred to as “paper-processed sheet tobacco”; if the tobacco molded body is formed by a casting method, it is referred to as “slurry-processed sheet tobacco”; and if the tobacco molded body is formed by a rolling method, it is referred to as “rolling-processed sheet tobacco”.

If the first absorber includes sheet tobacco, the first absorber may be a laminate of sheet tobacco. Alternatively, the first absorber may be spirally wound sheet tobacco, or may be sheet tobacco folded in a bellows shape. Alternatively, the first absorber may be obtained by cutting the sheet tobacco into a fiber shape and bundling the obtained fibrous molded bodies (i.e., a bundle of fibrous molded bodies).

“Tobacco granules” refers to a molded product obtained by molding a raw material containing leaf tobacco into a granule shape. The tobacco granules can be molded by a known method such as extrusion granulation, fluidized-bed granulation, or spray drying.

A “porous body of a mixture containing a polysaccharide and tobacco powder” refers to a porous body predominantly composed of a polysaccharide and into which tobacco powder is incorporated. Therefore, such a porous body can also be referred to as a “polysaccharide-based porous body containing tobacco powder”. Such a porous body can be prepared using known techniques for preparing porous bodies predominantly composed of polysaccharides (refer to, for example, WO2011/117752).

Preferably, a polysaccharide-based porous body containing tobacco powder can be prepared by supplying an inert gas to an aqueous polysaccharide solution containing tobacco powder to prepare an inert gas-supplied liquid, pressure-reducing the inert gas-supplied liquid to form a foam, and drying the foam by reduced-pressure drying. As the polysaccharide, for example, agar, gellan gum, pectin and the like can be used. As the inert gas, for example, CO₂ gas can be used.

According to one example, such a porous body can be prepared as follows.

(1) First, tobacco powder was prepared. Specifically, for a cigarette (MEVIUS SUPER LIGHTS (JAPAN TOBACCO INC.)), a cut tobacco section was taken out and ground with a mill, and parts having a sieve opening size of 500 μm or less were selected.

(2) 4.4 g of powdered agar (Wako Pure Chemical Industries, Ltd., special grade) was dissolved in 375 mL of water and warmed to 90° C.

(3) 13.1 g of the tobacco powder was added to the aqueous agar solution (90° C.) and dispersed. The resulting aqueous agar solution containing the tobacco powder had a viscosity of 0.02 [Pa·s] when placed under conditions of a temperature of 45° C. and atmospheric pressure.

(4) The aqueous agar solution (90° C.) containing the tobacco powder was cooled to 60° C.

(5) The aqueous agar solution (60° C.) containing the tobacco powder was placed in a sealed container, and CO₂ gas was supplied to the aqueous agar solution. The CO₂ gas was supplied by bubbling the CO₂ gas into the aqueous agar solution using ESPUMA SPARKLING (NIPPON TANSAN GAS CO., LTD). The amount of supplied CO₂ gas was 16 g, and the partial pressure of CO₂ gas was 1124 kPa.

(6) The liquid to which the CO₂ gas was supplied was shaken for 7 minutes.

(7) The sealed container was opened, and the obtained mousse-state foam was poured into a vat. The difference between the pressures before and after opening the sealed container was 1124 kPa. Immediately after the sealed container was opened, the mousse-state foam had a temperature of 45° C.

(8) The foam was left for 30 minutes or more to gel, and then the gel-state foam was left until it returned to room temperature (25° C.)

(9) The gel-state foam was placed in a freezer for freezing, and then dried until the water content became approximately zero (approximately 3 days). Drying was carried out under a reduced pressure of 0.61 kPa or less. In this way, the “polysaccharide-based porous body containing tobacco powder” was prepared.

The tobacco material (preferably the tobacco molded body) may contain an additional component in addition to the leaf tobacco or the tobacco powder. The additional component is not particularly limited, and may be a base material (skeleton material) for molding the tobacco molded body, a material that enhances the ability of the first absorber to absorb the first aerosol source, or an additive such as a flavor or a preservative.

As the base material (skeleton material) for molding the tobacco molded body, polysaccharides such as agar, gellan gum, and pectin can be used as described above. Examples of the material that enhances the ability of the first absorber to absorb the first aerosol source include an absorbent material such as cotton, pulp, or glass fiber. As the additive, an additive that has been used in an existing flavor inhaler can be used.

The first absorber may contain an additional component in addition to the tobacco material (preferably the tobacco molded body). The additional component is not particularly limited, and may be the absorbent material described above or the additive described above.

The first absorber and the first aerosol source may be mixed by mixing both of them after preparing the first absorber, or by incorporating the first aerosol source during preparation of the first absorber.

If the first absorber is a sheet tobacco or tobacco granules, this can be prepared by extracting leaf tobacco with hot water, separating it into a tobacco extract and a tobacco residue, molding the tobacco residue into a sheet shape or a granule shape, and adding the tobacco extract to the obtained molded body. In this case, the first absorber and the first aerosol source may be mixed by adding the tobacco extract to the molded body and then further adding the first aerosol source, or by adding a mixed liquid of the tobacco extract and the first aerosol source to the molded body instead of adding the tobacco extract to the molded body. The latter is preferable because the tobacco flavor components are easily eluted into the first aerosol source.

If the first absorber is a polysaccharide-based porous body containing tobacco powder, the first absorber and the first aerosol source may be mixed by incorporating tobacco powder into a raw material to prepare a polysaccharide-based porous body, and then adding the first aerosol source to the polysaccharide-based porous body. Alternatively, in this case, the first absorber and the first aerosol source may be mixed by extracting the tobacco powder with hot water, separating it into a tobacco extract and a tobacco residue, incorporating the tobacco residue into a raw material to prepare a polysaccharide-based porous body, and adding a mixed liquid of the tobacco extract and the first aerosol source to the polysaccharide-based porous body. The latter is preferable because the tobacco flavor components are easily eluted into the first aerosol source.

A ratio M_(AS)1/M_(Ab)1 between a mass M_(As)1 of the first aerosol source and a mass M_(Ab)1 of the first absorber is, for example, 2 to 20, preferably 5 to 15.

(Aerosol Generation Unit)

The aerosol generation unit 32 is arranged in the Z direction with respect to the aerosol source storage unit 31. The aerosol generation unit 32 is in contact with the aerosol source storage unit 31.

The aerosol generation unit 32 includes a liquid second aerosol source, and a second absorber that has absorbed the second aerosol source. Here, the term “liquid” means a liquid in a usage temperature range of the flavor inhaler 1. The usage temperature range of the flavor inhaler 1 is as described above.

The second aerosol source is absorbed and held into the second absorber. For the second aerosol source, an aerosol source generally used in a heat-not-burn-type flavor inhaler can be used. For the second aerosol source, for example, polyhydric alcohol can be used. Examples of the polyhydric alcohol include glycerin, propylene glycol, 1,3-propanediol, 1,3-butanediol, or any combination thereof.

The second aerosol source may be the same as or different from the first aerosol source. That is, the second aerosol source can in general be of the same type as the first aerosol source, but may be of a type different from that of the first aerosol source. Even if the second aerosol source is of a type different from that of the first aerosol source, the first aerosol source and the second aerosol source can exhibit similar behavior to that when they are of the same type. That is, first, the second aerosol source held in the second absorber is heated, then with decrease of the second aerosol source, the first aerosol source is absorbed into the second absorber and heated, and thereafter, the movement of the first aerosol source into the second absorber and the release of the aerosol continuously occur.

A ratio M_(AS)2/(M_(AS)1+M_(AS)2) of a mass M_(AS)2 of the second aerosol source to total M_(AS)1+M_(AS)2 of the mass M_(AS)1 of the first aerosol source and the mass M_(AS)2 of the second aerosol source is, for example, 0.005 to 0.1, preferably 0.01 to 0.05.

The second absorber is in contact with the first absorber. The second absorber and the first absorber are arranged in the length direction of the first absorber, here, the Z direction.

The second absorber is a molded product according to one example. The second absorber may be molded separately from the first absorber, and bonded to the first absorber with an adhesive or the like if necessary. Alternatively, the second absorber may be molded integrally with the first absorber. Preferably, the first absorber and the second absorber are integrally formed. If the first absorber and the second absorber are integrally formed, an area in which the second absorber is in contact with the first absorber increases, and the second absorber easily absorbs the first aerosol source held by the first absorber.

An interface between the first absorber and the second absorber includes a concave portion or a convex portion. Here, the interface between the first absorber and the second absorber protrudes at a central portion thereof toward the second absorber. Specifically, the interface between the first absorber and the second absorber protrudes conically towards the second absorber. The surface of the second absorber on the side opposite to the interface is a plane substantially perpendicular to the Z direction.

The second absorber includes a tobacco material. As the tobacco material, those described as the tobacco material of the first absorber can be used.

The second absorber and the second aerosol source can be mixed in a manner similar to the mixing of the first absorber and the first aerosol source.

A ratio M_(AS)2/M_(Ab)2 between a mass M_(AS)2 of the second aerosol source and a mass M_(Ab)2 of the second absorber is, for example, 1 to 10, preferably 2.5 to 7.5.

(Absorption Rate of Aerosol Source)

A rate V2 at which the second absorber absorbs the first aerosol source is higher than a rate V1 at which the first absorber absorbs the first aerosol source. Here, the rates V1 and V2 are values obtained by the following method.

The first absorber or the second absorber is adjusted to a predetermined size (i.e., a columnar body having a diameter of 0.8 cm×a height of 3.0 cm), and the weight thereof before absorbing the aerosol source is measured. Thereafter, the first absorber or the second absorber is set such that the height direction (i.e., Z direction) of the first absorber or the second absorber is perpendicular to the liquid surface of the container storing the aerosol source. At this time, the first absorber or the second absorber is not in contact with the aerosol source. Next, the first absorber or the second absorber (specifically, one end surface) is brought into contact with the liquid surface of the aerosol source to start the absorption action. After a certain period of time (i.e., 120 seconds), the first absorber or the second absorber is removed from the liquid surface, and the weight after absorbing the aerosol source is measured. From the weight increase and the elapsed time, the rates V1 and V2 are obtained.

The rate V1 is, for example, 0.5 to 2.5 mg/sec, preferably 0.75 to 2 mg/sec. The rate V2 is, for example, 1 to 5 mg/sec, preferably 1.5 to 4 mg/sec. The difference between the rates V2 and V1 is, for example, 0.5 to 2.5 mg/sec, preferably 0.75 to 2 mg/sec. The ratio V2/V1 between the rate V2 and the rate V1 is, for example, 1.5 to 3.5, preferably 2 to 3.

The above-described relationship regarding the rate at which the first aerosol source is absorbed (i.e., the relationship in which the rate V2 at which the second absorber absorbs the first aerosol source is higher than the rate V1 at which the first absorber absorbs the first aerosol source) can be realized by, for example, changing the following structures.

If the first absorber and the second absorber are paper-processed sheet tobacco, the rate at which the first aerosol source is absorbed can be changed by changing the degree of beating treatment (degree of beating). The paper-processed sheet tobacco can be produced by extracting leaf tobacco with hot water, separating it into a tobacco extract and a tobacco residue, beating the tobacco residue, then molding it into a sheet shape by a sheet-processing step, and adding the tobacco extract to the obtained sheet-molded product. By increasing the degree of beating, the tobacco fibers are cut and entangled, and the density of the sheet tobacco is increased. If the degree of beating is increased, the diameter of capillaries formed in fibers or between fibers (i.e., the diameter of cavities causing capillary action) can be substantially reduced, the sheet tobacco can easily absorb the aerosol source through capillary action, and the rate at which the sheet tobacco absorbs the aerosol source is increased.

If the first absorber and the second absorber are tobacco granules, the rate at which the first aerosol source is absorbed can be changed by changing the particle size of tobacco granules. The tobacco granules can be produced by extracting leaf tobacco with hot water, separating it into a tobacco extract and a tobacco residue, molding the tobacco residue into a granule shape, and adding the tobacco extract to the obtained granular molded product. By reducing the particle size of tobacco granules, the specific surface area of tobacco granules increases, and the number of tobacco granules contained in a given volume increases. If the particle size of tobacco granules is reduced, the diameter of capillaries formed by voids among granules (i.e., the diameter of cavities causing capillary action) can be substantially reduced, the aggregate of tobacco granules can easily absorb the aerosol source through capillary action, and the rate at which the tobacco granules absorb the aerosol source is increased.

If the first absorber and the second absorber are sheet tobacco, or if the first absorber and the second absorber are tobacco granules, the ability to absorb the aerosol source can be enhanced by producing sheet tobacco or tobacco granules by adding an absorbent material such as cotton, pulp, or glass fiber to the raw material, or after producing sheet tobacco or tobacco granules, adding and mixing an absorbent material such as cotton, pulp, or glass fiber. By increasing the content ratio of the absorbent material in the second absorber, the ability of the second absorber to absorb the aerosol source is increased, and the rate at which the second absorber absorbs the aerosol source is increased.

If the first absorber and the second absorber are the polysaccharide-based porous body containing tobacco powder, the rate at which the first aerosol source is absorbed can be changed by changing the porosity of the porous body (i.e., the ratio of the cavity to the total volume) or the pore size. If the porosity of the porous body is increased and the pore size is decreased, the number of capillaries in the porous body (i.e., cavities causing capillary action) is substantially increased and the capillary diameter can be substantially decreased, whereby the porous body easily absorbs the aerosol source through capillary action and the rate at which the porous body absorbs the aerosol source is increased.

If the first absorber and the second absorber are the polysaccharide-based porous body containing tobacco powder, the rate at which the first aerosol source is absorbed can be changed by changing the isotropy of the pore (i.e., the flattening ratio of the pore) of the porous body. If a porous body with pores having a large flatness ratio is arranged such that the major axis of the pores is oriented in the same direction as the moving direction of the aerosol source, the diameter of capillaries inside the porous body (i.e., the diameter of cavities causing capillary action) can be made substantially small and uniformly oriented, and the rate at which the porous body absorbs the aerosol source is increased.

The above-described structures for changing the rate at which the first aerosol source is absorbed may be adopted in combination as appropriate.

In the above description, the case where the first absorber and the second absorber are the tobacco molded bodies having the same shape has been described as an example. The first absorber and the second absorber do not necessarily have the same shape as long as the first absorber and the second absorber satisfy the above-described relationship in regard to the rate at which the first aerosol source is absorbed. For example, the first absorber and the second absorber may be a combination of the sheet tobacco and the polysaccharide-based porous body, or may be a combination of the tobacco granules and the polysaccharide-based porous body.

(Cylindrical Body)

For the cylindrical body 33, its length direction is parallel to the length direction of the first absorber. The length direction of the cylindrical body 33 is parallel to the Y direction which is the length direction of the flavor inhaler 1. The cylindrical body 33 is disposed between the air inlet H1 and the aerosol outlet H2 in the case 2.

The cylindrical body 33 accommodates the aerosol source storage unit 31 and the aerosol generation unit 32. The aerosol source storage unit 31 and the aerosol generation unit 32 are arranged in the length direction of the cylindrical body 33. Here, the aerosol source storage unit 31 and the aerosol generation unit 32 are arranged such that the aerosol generation unit 32 is positioned between the air inlet H1 and the aerosol source storage unit 31.

The material of the cylindrical body 33 is not limited. As the material of the cylindrical body 33, for example, a metal, polymer, or ceramic can be used.

The cylindrical body 33 has a bottomless cylindrical shape that is open on both ends. The cylindrical body 33 may have a bottomed cylindrical shape that is open only on one end. In this case, the aerosol source storage unit 31 and the aerosol generation unit 32 are arranged such that the aerosol generation unit 32 is positioned between the opening of the cylindrical body 33 and the aerosol source storage unit 31.

(Heater)

The heater 34 heats the aerosol generation unit 32. Here, the heater 34 is a planar heater having a heating surface HS shown in FIG. 3 . The planar heater includes a support having the heating surface HS, and a resistance heating element supported by the support.

The support is made of an insulator or a conductor. If the supporter is made of a conductor, an insulating layer is interposed between the resistance heating element and the support.

Connection terminals are provided at both ends of the resistance heating element. The connection terminals are in contact with the discharge terminals described above. The resistance heating element generates heat by being supplied with electric power from the power supply circuit.

The heater 34 is disposed such that the heating surface HS faces the first absorber with the second absorber interposed therebetween. Preferably, the heater 34 is disposed such that the heating surface HS is in contact with the second absorber. The heater 34 may be spaced apart from the second absorber as long as the aerosol generation unit 32 can be heated to a sufficiently high temperature.

The heater 34 includes one or more grooves G1 provided in the heating surface HS, and one or more through holes H3 communicating with the grooves G1. Here, in the heater 34, two grooves G1 intersecting with each other are provided in the heating surface HS, and one through hole H3 is provided at the intersection of them. The groove G1 may be omitted, the through hole H3 may be omitted, or the groove G1 and the through hole H3 may be omitted.

The flavor inhaler 1 may further include a filter described below through which an aerosol passes. Such a filter may be disposed, for example, in the mouthpiece 22M or at the vicinity thereof.

<1-2> Operation

As described above, in the flavor inhaler 1, the aerosol source storage unit 31 includes the first aerosol source and the tobacco material, and the aerosol generation unit 32 includes the second aerosol source and the tobacco material. In the aerosol source storage unit 31, the first aerosol source extracts flavor components from the tobacco material. In the aerosol generation unit 32, the second aerosol source extracts flavor components from the tobacco material. That is, the first and second aerosol sources contain flavor components.

Upon the user performing the puff action after the flavor inhaler 1 is activated, air flows into the case 2 from the external space of the case 2 via the air inlets H1. The inhalation sensor detects the start of the user's puff action based on, for example, a change in pressure caused by the inflow of air. The control unit controls, if the inhalation sensor detects the start of the puff action, the operation of the power supply circuit so that the power supply starts supplying electric power to the discharge terminal. Thereby, the resistance heating element of the heater 34 generates heat, and at least a portion of the aerosol generation unit 32 on the heating surface HS side is heated by the heater 34.

Furthermore, the air flowing into the case with the user's puff action reaches the vicinity of the aerosol generation unit 32, for example, along a path indicated by a broken line F in FIG. 1 . For example, at least a part of the air that has flown into the case passes through the through hole H3 provided in the heater 34, reaches the aerosol generation unit 32, then passes through the groove G1, and is discharged to the outside of the space sandwiched between the heater and the aerosol outlet H2. In the process, the flow of air entrains the aerosol source containing the flavor components and heated by the heater 34. That is, an aerosol containing the flavor components is generated.

The aerosol generated in this manner reaches the mouthpiece 22M through the gap between the cylindrical body 33 and the second case unit 22, and is discharged to the outside of the flavor inhaler 1 via the aerosol outlet H2.

Upon the user interrupting or stopping the puff action, the inflow of air from the external space of the case 2 into the case 2 via the air inlet H1 also stops. The inhalation sensor detects the interruption or stop of the user's puff action based on, for example, a change in pressure caused by the stop of the inflow of air. The control unit controls, if the inhalation sensor detects interruption or stop of the puff action, the operation of the power supply circuit so that the power supply stops supplying electric power to the discharge terminal. Thereby, the resistance heating element of the heater 34 stops generating heat, and a temperature of at least a portion of the aerosol generation unit 32 on the heating surface HS side is decreased. Thereby, the consumption of the aerosol source is suppressed.

In this manner, the user can enjoy the flavor for each puff action.

<1-3> Advantageous Effects

According to the flavor inhaler 1, the rate at which the second absorber absorbs the first aerosol source is higher than the rate at which the first absorber absorbs the first aerosol source. Therefore, it is possible to continuously supply the first aerosol source from the aerosol source storage unit 31 to the aerosol generation unit 32, and continuously release a sufficient amount of aerosol. That is, according to the flavor inhaler 1, as long as the supply of the first aerosol source from the aerosol source storage unit 31 to the aerosol generation unit 32 continues, the user can continuously inhale a sufficient amount of aerosol and enjoy a sufficient flavor. This will be described below.

Upon the aerosol source being consumed in the aerosol generation unit 32, the aerosol source storage unit 31 supplies the first aerosol source to the aerosol generation unit 32. As described above, in the flavor inhaler 1, the rate V2 at which the second absorber absorbs the first aerosol source is higher than the rate V1 at which the first absorber absorbs the first aerosol source. Therefore, the first aerosol source supplied from the aerosol source storage unit 31 to the aerosol generation unit 32 promptly diffuses in the aerosol generation unit 32. Therefore, in the flavor inhaler 1, a sufficient amount of the aerosol source can be present at a portion of the aerosol generation unit 32 in the vicinity of the heater 34 until substantially the entire amount of aerosol source is consumed.

Furthermore, in the flavor inhaler 1, the absorber includes a concave portion or a convex portion. Therefore, in the flavor inhaler 1, the contact area between the first absorber and the second absorber is large. Such a structure facilitates supply of the first aerosol source from the aerosol source storage unit 31 to the aerosol generation unit 32.

Moreover, in the flavor inhaler 1, the interface between the first absorber and the second absorber protrudes at a central portion thereof toward the second absorber. Assuming that the diameter and the volume of the aerosol generation unit 32 are constant, the shortest distance from the aerosol source storage unit 31 to the surface of the aerosol generation unit 32 on the heater 34 side is shorter in this structure than in a structure in which the interface is a plane perpendicular to the Z direction. Therefore, in this structure, the amount of aerosol source is less likely to be insufficient in the portion of the aerosol generation unit 32 in the vicinity of the heater 34.

Therefore, in the flavor inhaler 1, as long as the supply of the first aerosol source from the aerosol source storage unit 31 to the aerosol generation unit 32 continues, the amount of the aerosol source is less likely to be insufficient in the portion of the aerosol generation unit 32 in the vicinity of the heater 34, and a sufficient amount of aerosol can be continuously released. That is, as long as the supply of the first aerosol source from the aerosol source storage unit 31 to the aerosol generation unit 32 continues, the user can continuously inhale a sufficient amount of aerosol and enjoy a sufficient flavor.

<1-4> Modifications

Various modifications can be made to the flavor inhaler 1 described above.

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an aerosol generator according to a first modification.

A flavor inhaler according to the first modification is the same as the flavor inhaler 1 described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3 , except that the structure of FIG. 4 is adopted for the aerosol generator 3. That is, in the first modification, the interface between the first absorber and the second absorber has a shape corresponding to a part of a spherical surface instead of a conical shape. The flavor inhaler adopting this structure can also achieve effects similar to those of the flavor inhaler 1 described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3 .

<2> Second Embodiment

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a flavor inhaler according to a second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an aerosol generator included in the flavor inhaler of FIG. 5 .

A flavor inhaler 1 according to the second embodiment is the same as the flavor inhaler 1 described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3 , except that the following structure is adopted for the aerosol generator 3.

That is, in the aerosol generator 3 of the flavor inhaler 1 according to the second embodiment, the interface between the first absorber and the second absorber has a shape corresponding to a part of a spherical surface instead of a conical shape, as in the first modification.

Furthermore, in the aerosol generator 3, the diameter of the opening of the cylindrical body 33 closer to the aerosol generation unit 32 is smaller than the inner diameter of the cylindrical body 33 at the position of the aerosol source storage unit 31.

In the aerosol generator 3, the second absorber is tapered toward the heating surface of the heater 34, and the heating surface has a smaller dimension in a direction perpendicular to the length direction of the first absorber than that of the first absorber. Here, the surface of the second absorber on the heater 34 side has a shape corresponding to a part of a spherical surface.

The heating surface of the heater 34 is spaced apart from the edge of the cylindrical body 33 that forms the opening closer to the aerosol generation unit 32. At the position of the gap between them, the aerosol generation unit 32 is partially exposed.

The flavor inhaler 1 adopting this structure can also achieve effects similar to those of the flavor inhaler 1 described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3 .

Furthermore, in the flavor inhaler 1 adopting this structure, the region of the aerosol generation unit 32 that is in contact with the heating surface of the heater 34 has a small area. Thus, it is possible to prevent the consumption of the aerosol source caused by aerosol generation from exceeding the supply of the aerosol source from the aerosol source storage unit 31 to the aerosol generation unit 32. Therefore, in the flavor inhaler 1 adopting this structure, a sufficient amount of aerosol source can be more reliably present in the portion of the aerosol generation unit 32 in the vicinity of the heater 34 until substantially the whole amount of aerosol source is consumed. Furthermore, according to this structure, it is also possible to reduce the amount of aerosol source consumed by one puff action.

<3> Third Embodiment

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a flavor inhaler according to a third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an aerosol generator included in the flavor inhaler of FIG. 7 . FIG. 9 is another cross-sectional view of the aerosol generator shown in FIG. 8 .

A flavor inhaler 1 according to the third embodiment is the same as the flavor inhaler 1 described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3 , except that the following structure is adopted for the aerosol generator 3.

That is, in the aerosol generator 3 of the flavor inhaler 1 according to the third embodiment, the heater 34 includes a linear heating portion HP that faces the first absorber with the second absorber interposed therebetween. That is, here, the heater 34 is a linear heater including the linear heating portion HP. The linear heater includes, for example, a support made of an insulating material, and a resistance heating element supported by the support. The resistance heating element includes a straight-line portion. The heater 34 includes the straight-line portion of the resistance heating element as the heating portion HP. Here, the length direction of the heating portion HP is parallel to the Y direction.

In the aerosol generator 3, as shown in FIG. 8 , when the cross section perpendicular to the Y direction is observed, the diameter of the opening of the cylindrical body 33 closer to the aerosol generation unit 32 is smaller than the inner diameter of the cylindrical body 33 at the position of the aerosol source storage unit 31. Specifically, when the cross section perpendicular to the Y direction is observed, the diameter of the cylindrical body 33 is reduced toward the heater 34 side in the vicinity of the heater 34. As shown in FIG. 9 , when the cross section perpendicular to the X direction is observed, the diameter of the cylindrical body 33 is constant along the length direction thereof.

Furthermore, in the aerosol generator 3, as shown in FIG. 8 , when the cross section perpendicular to the Y direction is observed, the surface of the second absorber on the side of the heating portion HP protrudes at a central portion. Moreover, as shown in FIG. 9 , when the cross section perpendicular to the X direction is observed, the surface of the second absorber on the side of the heating portion HP is flat. Here, a portion of the second absorber on the side of the heating portion HP has a gable roof shape. That is, here, the surface of the second absorber on the side of the heating portion HP consists of two planes that are inclined in opposite directions. The edge formed by these planes is in contact with the heating portion HP. Furthermore, in the surface of the second absorber on the side of the heating portion HP, a region including the above-described edge protrudes outside from the opening of the cylindrical body 33.

The flavor inhaler 1 adopting this structure can also achieve effects similar to those of the flavor inhaler 1 described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3 . Furthermore, in the flavor inhaler 1 adopting this structure, as in the flavor inhaler 1 according to the second embodiment, a sufficient amount of aerosol source can be more reliably present in the portion of the aerosol generation unit 32 in the vicinity of the heater 34 until substantially the whole amount of aerosol source is consumed. Furthermore, according to this structure, it is also possible to reduce the amount of aerosol source consumed by one puff action.

<4> Fourth Embodiment

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a flavor inhaler according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an aerosol generator included in the flavor inhaler of FIG. 10 .

A flavor inhaler 1 according to the fourth embodiment is the same as the flavor inhaler 1 described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3 , except that the following structure is adopted for the aerosol generator 3.

That is, in the aerosol generator 3 of the flavor inhaler 1 according to the fourth embodiment, as shown in FIG. 11 , the diameter of the opening of the cylindrical body 33 closer to the aerosol generation unit 32 is smaller than the inner diameter of the cylindrical body 33 at a position away from the opening. Specifically, the diameter of the cylindrical body 33 is reduced toward the heater 34 side in the vicinity of the heater 34.

In the aerosol generator 3, the cylindrical body 33 accommodates the aerosol source storage unit 31 but does not accommodate the aerosol generation unit 32. The second absorber has a shape extending in the direction in which the first absorber and the second absorber are arranged, and has a diameter substantially equal to the diameter of the above-described opening. The second absorber is in contact with the first absorber at the position of the opening, and protrudes outside the cylindrical body 33. The absorber is a plane perpendicular to the above-described arrangement direction.

Furthermore, in the aerosol generator 3, the heater 34 is a coiled heater wound around the aerosol generation unit 32. The coiled heater includes, for example, a coiled resistance heating element. The coiled heater may further include an insulating layer covering the resistance heating element.

The flavor inhaler 1 adopting this structure can also achieve effects similar to those of the flavor inhaler 1 described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3 . Furthermore, in the flavor inhaler 1 adopting this structure, as in the flavor inhaler 1 according to the second embodiment, a sufficient amount of aerosol source can be more reliably present in the portion of the aerosol generation unit 32 in the vicinity of the heater 34 until substantially the whole amount of aerosol source is consumed. Furthermore, according to this structure, it is also possible to reduce the amount of aerosol source consumed by one puff action.

Furthermore, in the flavor inhaler 1 adopting this structure, the heater 34 has a coil shape and is wound around the aerosol generation unit 32. According to such a structure, it is possible to uniformly heat the aerosol generation unit 32 and efficiently supply air to the aerosol generation unit 32. Therefore, according to the structure, it is possible to efficiently generate an aerosol.

Various modifications can be made to the flavor inhaler 1 described above.

FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an aerosol generator according to a second modification. FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an aerosol generator according to a third modification.

A flavor inhaler according to the second modification is the same as the flavor inhaler 1 described with reference to FIGS. 10 and 11 , except that the structure of FIG. 12 is adopted for the aerosol generator 3. That is, in the second modification, the interface between the first absorber and the second absorber has a conical shape instead of a planar shape.

A flavor inhaler according to the third modification is the same as the flavor inhaler 1 described with reference to FIGS. 10 and 11 , except that the structure of FIG. 13 is adopted for the aerosol generator 3. That is, in the third modification, the interface between the first absorber and the second absorber has a shape corresponding to a part of a spherical surface instead of a planar shape.

The flavor inhaler adopting these structures can also achieve effects similar to those of the flavor inhaler 1 described with reference to FIGS. 10 and 11 . In the structures shown in FIGS. 12 and 13 , the contact area between the first absorber and the second absorber is larger than that in the structure shown in FIG. 11 . These structures are advantageous in promoting the supply of the first aerosol source from the aerosol source storage unit 31 to the aerosol generation unit 32.

<5> Fifth Embodiment

FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a flavor inhaler according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an aerosol generator included in the flavor inhaler of FIG. 14 . FIG. 16 is a top view of the aerosol generator shown in FIG. 15 .

A flavor inhaler 1 according to the fifth embodiment is the same as the flavor inhaler 1 described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3 , except that the following structure is adopted for the aerosol generator 3.

That is, in the aerosol generator 3 of the flavor inhaler 1 according to the fifth embodiment, the first absorber has a pillar shape, and the second absorber surrounds the first absorber. Here, the first absorber has a columnar shape in which the height direction is parallel to the Z direction. The second absorber surrounds the first absorber so as to cover the side surface of the column.

The aerosol generator 3 does not include the cylindrical body 33. Instead, the aerosol generator 3 includes a cover body 35. The cover body 35 covers both bottom surfaces of a pillar body formed by the first absorber. As a material of the cover body 35, for example, a metal, polymer, or ceramic can be used. The cover body 35 can be omitted.

Furthermore, in the aerosol generator 3, the heater 34 is a linear heater surrounding the first absorber with the second absorber interposed therebetween. The linear heater includes, for example, a linear resistance heating element surrounding the first absorber with the second absorber interposed therebetween. The linear heater may further include an insulating layer covering the resistance heating element.

The flavor inhaler 1 adopting this structure can also achieve effects similar to those of the flavor inhaler 1 described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3 .

Furthermore, in the flavor inhaler 1 adopting this structure, the contact area between the first absorber and the second absorber is large. Therefore, the aerosol source can be efficiently supplied from the aerosol source storage unit 31 to the aerosol generation unit 32. Therefore, a sufficient amount of aerosol source can be more reliably present in the aerosol generation unit 32 until substantially the whole amount of aerosol source is consumed.

Furthermore, in the flavor inhaler 1 adopting this structure, the heater 34 is linear and wound around the aerosol generation unit 32. According to such a structure, air can be efficiently supplied to the aerosol generation unit 32. Therefore, according to the structure, it is possible to efficiently generate an aerosol.

<6> Sixth Embodiment

FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a flavor inhaler according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an aerosol generator included in the flavor inhaler of FIG. 17 . FIG. 19 is a top view of the aerosol generator shown in FIG. 18 .

The flavor inhaler 1 according to the sixth embodiment is the same as the flavor inhaler 1 described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3 , except that the following structure is adopted for the aerosol generator 3.

That is, in the aerosol generator 3 of the flavor inhaler 1 according to the sixth embodiment, as in the aerosol generator 3 of the flavor inhaler 1 according to the fifth embodiment, the first absorber has a pillar shape, and the second absorber surrounds the first absorber. Here, the first absorber has a columnar shape in which the height direction is parallel to the Z direction. The second absorber surrounds the first absorber so as to cover the side surface of the column.

The aerosol generator 3 does not include the cylindrical body 33. Instead, the aerosol generator 3 includes a cover body 35, as in the aerosol generator 3 of the flavor inhaler 1 according to the fifth embodiment. The cover body 35 covers both bottom surfaces of a pillar body formed by the first absorber. The cover body 35 can be omitted.

Furthermore, in the aerosol generator 3, the heater 34 is a cylindrical heater surrounding the first absorber with the second absorber interposed therebetween. The cylindrical heater includes, for example, a cylindrical support made of an insulator and having an inner surface as a heating surface, and a resistance heating element supported by the support.

The flavor inhaler 1 adopting this structure can also achieve effects similar to those of the flavor inhaler 1 described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3 .

Furthermore, in the flavor inhaler 1 adopting this structure, the contact area between the first absorber and the second absorber is large. Therefore, the aerosol source can be efficiently supplied from the aerosol source storage unit 31 to the aerosol generation unit 32. Therefore, a sufficient amount of aerosol source can be more reliably present in the aerosol generation unit 32 until substantially the whole amount of aerosol source is consumed.

Furthermore, in the flavor inhaler 1 adopting this structure, the heater 34 has a cylindrical shape and is disposed around the aerosol generation unit 32. According to such a structure, it is possible to efficiently heat the aerosol generation unit 32. Therefore, according to the structure, it is possible to efficiently generate an aerosol.

Various modifications can be made to the flavor inhaler 1 described above.

FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an aerosol generator according to a fourth modification. FIG. 21 is a top view of the aerosol generator shown in FIG. 20 .

A flavor inhaler according to the fourth modification is the same as the flavor inhaler 1 described with reference to FIGS. 17 to 19 , except that the structure of FIGS. 20 and 21 is adopted for the aerosol generator 3. That is, in the fourth modification, the inner surface of the heater 34, i.e., the heating surface has one or more grooves G2 each extending from one opening to the other opening of the cylinder formed by the heater 34. Here, the heating surface of the heater 34 is provided with a plurality of grooves G2 each extending in the Z direction.

The flavor inhaler adopting these structures can also achieve effects similar to those of the flavor inhaler 1 described with reference to FIGS. 17 to 19 . Furthermore, in the flavor inhaler adopting the structure, air can come into contact with the aerosol generation unit 32 at the position of the groove G2. Therefore, with the flavor inhaler adopting this structure as well, it is possible to efficiently generate an aerosol.

<7> Seventh Embodiment

FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a flavor inhaler according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 23 is another cross-sectional view of the flavor inhaler shown in FIG. 22 .

The flavor inhaler 1 according to the seventh embodiment is the same as the flavor inhaler 1 described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3 , except that the following structure is adopted for the aerosol generator 3.

That is, in the aerosol generator 3 of the flavor inhaler 1 according to the seventh embodiment, as in the aerosol generator 3 of the flavor inhaler 1 according to the sixth embodiment, the first absorber has a pillar shape, and the second absorber surrounds the first absorber. Here, the first absorber has a columnar shape, and the second absorber surrounds the first absorber so as to cover the side surface of the column. However, here, the height direction of the column formed by the first absorber is parallel to the Y direction.

The aerosol generator 3 does not include the cylindrical body 33. Instead, the aerosol generator 3 includes a cover body 35, as in the aerosol generator 3 of the flavor inhaler 1 according to the sixth embodiment. The cover body 35 covers both bottom surfaces of a pillar body formed by the first absorber. The cover body 35 can be omitted.

Furthermore, in the aerosol generator 3, as in the aerosol generator 3 of the flavor inhaler 1 according to the sixth embodiment, the heater 34 is a cylindrical heater surrounding the first absorber with the second absorber interposed therebetween.

Reference numeral 5 denotes a support member that detachably supports the aerosol generator 3. The support member 5 is provided with terminals that are in contact with the connection terminals of the resistance heating element included in the heater 34 and connect the connection terminals to the discharge terminals.

The flavor inhaler 1 adopting this structure can also achieve effects similar to those of the flavor inhaler 1 described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3 .

Furthermore, in the flavor inhaler 1 adopting this structure, the contact area between the first absorber and the second absorber is large. Therefore, the aerosol source can be efficiently supplied from the aerosol source storage unit 31 to the aerosol generation unit 32. Therefore, a sufficient amount of aerosol source can be more reliably present in the aerosol generation unit 32 until substantially the whole amount of aerosol source is consumed.

Furthermore, in the flavor inhaler 1 adopting this structure, the heater 34 has a cylindrical shape and is disposed around the aerosol generation unit 32. According to such a structure, it is possible to efficiently heat the aerosol generation unit 32. Therefore, according to the structure, it is possible to efficiently generate an aerosol.

<8> Other Modifications

One or more of the features described in the above embodiments and modifications may be combined with the features described in other embodiments or modifications. Furthermore, each invention described in the Summary can be combined with one or more of the features described in the above embodiments and the modifications. For example, the groove G2 described with reference to FIGS. 20 and 21 may be provided in the heater 34 included in the flavor inhaler 1 shown in FIGS. 22 and 23 .

Furthermore, in each of the flavor inhalers according to the above embodiments and modifications, the heater 34 is a part of the cartridge. The cartridge does not have to include the heater 34. That is, the heater 34 may be a part of the power supply unit. In this case, it is preferable that the heater 34 be replaceable.

Furthermore, as the heater 34, a heater using induction heating may be used instead of a heater using a resistance heating element. For example, as the heater 34 shown in FIGS. 2, 4, 6 and 8 and the heater 34 shown in FIGS. 15, 18 and 20 , instead of a heater using a resistance heating element, a heater including a susceptor and an electromagnetic induction coil disposed to surround the susceptor may be used to generate an aerosol by induction heating. In this case, a material that is not inductively heated is selected for the cylindrical body 33. FIGS. 24 and 25 show a modification with a heater utilizing induction heating.

FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a flavor inhaler according to another modification.

A flavor inhaler 1 shown in FIG. 24 is the same as the flavor inhaler 1 described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3 except for the following points. That is, in the flavor inhaler 1 shown in FIG. 24 , the cylindrical body 33 is made of a material, such as an insulator, that is not inductively heated. In the flavor inhaler 1 shown in FIG. 24 , the heater 34 includes an electromagnetic induction coil 34 a, a dielectric layer 34 b, and a susceptor 34 c.

The susceptor 34 c is made of a conductive material, for example, a metal. The susceptor 34 c has an outer shape similar to that of the heater 34 described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3 . That is, the susceptor 34 c has a substantially disc shape. One main surface of the susceptor 34 c is a heating surface, and the susceptor 34 c is disposed such that the heating surface faces the first absorber with the second absorber interposed therebetween. Preferably, the susceptor 34 c is disposed such that the heating surface is in contact with the second absorber.

Furthermore, the susceptor 34 c includes one or more grooves G1, and one or more through holes H3 communicating with the grooves G1, described with reference to FIG. 3 . Here, in the susceptor side 34 c, two grooves intersecting with each other are provided in the heating surface, and one through hole is provided at the intersection of them. The groove may be omitted, the through hole may be omitted, or the groove and the through hole may be omitted.

The electromagnetic induction coil 34 a is disposed in the case 2. The electromagnetic induction coil 34 a surrounds the susceptor 34 c and is spaced apart from the susceptor 34 c.

The dielectric layer 34 b covers the electromagnetic induction coil 34 a. The combination of the electromagnetic induction coil 34 a and the dielectric layer 34 b has a cylindrical shape, surrounds the susceptor 34 c and a portion of the cylindrical body 33 on the susceptor 34 c side, and is spaced apart from them.

FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a flavor inhaler according to still another modification.

A flavor inhaler 1 shown in FIG. 25 is the same as the flavor inhaler 1 described with reference to FIGS. 17 to 19 except for the following points. That is, in the flavor inhaler 1 shown in FIG. 25 , as in the flavor inhaler 1 shown in FIG. 24 , the heater 34 includes the electromagnetic induction coil 34 a, the dielectric layer 34 b, and the susceptor 34 c.

Unlike the susceptor 34 c shown in FIG. 24 , the susceptor 34 c shown in FIG. 25 has a cylindrical shape. In this susceptor 34 c, the inner surface of the cylinder is the heating surface. The susceptor 34 c is disposed such that the heating surface faces the first absorber with the second absorber interposed therebetween. Preferably, the susceptor 34 c is disposed such that the heating surface is in contact with the outer surface of the second absorber.

In the flavor inhaler 1 shown in FIGS. 24 and 25 , upon the electromagnetic induction coil 34 a being energized, the susceptor 34 c generates heat by induction heating, and the susceptor 34 c heats the aerosol generation unit 32. That is, the flavor inhaler 1 described with reference to FIG. 24 and the flavor inhaler 1 described with reference to FIG. 25 have the same structure as those of the flavor inhaler 1 described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3 and the flavor inhaler 1 described with reference to FIGS. 17 to 19 , except that the heater 34 has a different structure. Therefore, these flavor inhalers 1 also achieve effects similar to those of the flavor inhaler 1 described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3 and the flavor inhaler 1 described with reference to FIGS. 17 to 19 .

In the flavor inhaler 1 shown in FIGS. 24 and 25 , the heater 34 may be a part of the cartridge or may be a part of the power supply unit. Alternatively, the susceptor 34 c may be a part of the cartridge and the electromagnetic induction coil 34 a and the dielectric layer 34 b may be a part of the power supply unit.

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST

-   -   1. Flavor inhaler     -   2. Case     -   3. Aerosol generator     -   4. Power supplier     -   5. Support member     -   21. First case unit     -   22. Second case unit     -   22M. Mouthpiece     -   31. Aerosol source storage unit     -   32. Aerosol generation unit     -   33. Cylindrical body     -   34. Heater     -   34 a. Electromagnetic induction coil     -   34 b. Dielectric layer     -   34 c. Susceptor     -   35. Cover body     -   F. Flow     -   G1. Groove     -   G2. Groove     -   H1. Air inlet     -   H2. Aerosol outlet     -   H3. Through hole     -   HP. Heating portion     -   HS. Heating surface 

What is claimed is:
 1. An aerosol generator comprising: an aerosol source storage unit including a liquid first aerosol source and a first absorber having the first aerosol source absorbed, the first absorber including a tobacco material; and an aerosol generation unit including a liquid second aerosol source and a second absorber having the second aerosol source absorbed, the second absorber including a tobacco material and being in contact with the first absorber, a rate at which the second absorber absorbs the first aerosol source being higher than a rate at which the first absorber absorbs the first aerosol source.
 2. The aerosol generator according to claim 1, wherein the first absorber has a shape extending in one direction, and the first absorber and the second absorber are arranged in a length direction of the first absorber.
 3. The aerosol generator according to claim 2, wherein an interface between the first absorber and the second absorber protrudes at a central portion thereof toward the second absorber.
 4. The aerosol generator according to claim 2, further comprising a cylindrical body accommodating the aerosol source storage unit and the aerosol generation unit, wherein the aerosol source storage unit and the aerosol generation unit are arranged in a length direction of the cylindrical body.
 5. The aerosol generator according to claim 4, wherein the cylindrical body has a smaller diameter of an opening closer to the aerosol generation unit than an inner diameter at a position of the aerosol source storage unit.
 6. The aerosol generator according to claim 2, further comprising a heater including a heating surface facing the first absorber with the second absorber interposed therebetween.
 7. The aerosol generator according to claim 6, wherein the heater includes one or more grooves provided in the heating surface, one or more through holes communicating with the one or more grooves, or both.
 8. The aerosol generator according to claim 6, wherein the second absorber is tapered towards the heating surface, and the heating surface has a smaller dimension in a direction perpendicular to the length direction of the first absorber than that of the first absorber.
 9. The aerosol generator according to claim 2, further comprising a heater including a linear heating portion facing the first absorber with the second absorber interposed therebetween.
 10. The aerosol generator according to claim 9, wherein the second absorber has a surface on a side of the heating portion, the surface on the side of the heating portion being seen flat in a cross section parallel to the length direction of the first absorber and the length direction of the heating portion, and being seen protruding at a central portion thereof in a cross section parallel to the length direction of the first absorber and perpendicular to the length direction of the heating portion.
 11. The aerosol generator according to claim 2, further comprising a cylindrical body accommodating the aerosol source storage unit, wherein the cylindrical body has a smaller diameter of an opening closer to the aerosol generation unit than an inner diameter at a position away from the opening, and the aerosol generation unit protrudes outside the cylindrical body at a position of the opening.
 12. The aerosol generator according to claim 11, further comprising a coiled heater wound around the aerosol generation unit.
 13. The aerosol generator according to claim 1, wherein the first absorber has a pillar shape, and the second absorber surrounds the first absorber.
 14. The aerosol generator according to claim 13, further comprising a linear heater surrounding the first absorber with the second absorber interposed therebetween.
 15. The aerosol generator according to claim 13, further comprising a cylindrical heater surrounding the first absorber with the second absorber interposed therebetween.
 16. The aerosol generator according to claim 15, wherein an inner surface of the heater includes one or more grooves each extending from one opening of the heater to another opening of the heater.
 17. A flavor inhaler comprising: the aerosol generator according to claim 6; a power supply supplying electric power to the heater; and a case including a mouthpiece at one end, and accommodating the aerosol generator and the power supply.
 18. The flavor inhaler according to claim 17, wherein the aerosol generator is positioned between the power supply and the mouthpiece.
 19. The flavor inhaler according to claim 18, wherein the case includes an air inlet at a position between the power supply and the aerosol generator, and the aerosol generator and the case form a flow path therebetween from the air inlet to the mouthpiece. 